Lemongrass oil is one of the top essential oils available today and has been used for centuries because of its antibacterial, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and revitalizing properties. Many chefs make use of lemongrass leaves in cooking, especially in Thai dishes. The essential oil is a great option for home use and is one of the more common oils found in kitchens. The oil can also be used in facial cleaners and homemade body washes and can provide several treatment alternatives for conditions that require dangerous medication. Here are some of the most common uses of lemongrass essential oil.
As A Cleaner
The smell alone of lemongrass essential oil makes it a smart additive to homemade cleaners but its bactericidal property makes it ideal for disinfecting. It can be used on counters, furniture, wood and flooring. It is great at removing bacteria and can even remove stains in some circumstances. Mix it with a little castile soap and water in a spray bottle and use as a general purpose cleaner. Always test fabrics before using the oil freely in a room but damage to fabric, flooring or furniture is rare.
The oil can also be added to a diffuser. As it fills the room with a pleasant fragrance it will also eliminate airborne bacteria and stale odors. Try mixing the oil in a spray bottle with some water and using it as a homemade fabric and room refresher.
As A Bug Repellent
Lemongrass essential oil is one of the most effective natural bug repellents available. It can be mixed with other ingredients to make a spray that is safe for skin and clothing or added to candles that can be burned to keep bugs at bay.
The oil is also considered safe for pets and can help keep them bug free as well. Add a few drops of the oil to a dog’s shampoo or collar to repel fleas. Use sparingly though as the aroma is quite strong to a dog’s powerful sense of smell. Avoid use near cats.
As A Medical Healer
Lemongrass essential oil has a laundry list of medical uses. It can be used to detox the body, more specifically the digestive system and kidneys, while strengthening the immune system. It also helps to remove harmful free radicals from the body’s system. It lowers dangerous cholesterol while helping the body sustain healthy levels of triglycerides. It also helps with stomach pains, whether from simple gas issues or dangerous stomach ulcers. Some studies show that one of the main components in lemongrass, citral, may inhibit cancer cell growth.
Lemongrass oil is also a great natural solution to curing bladder infections. The oil can be directly rubbed on the skin over and near the bladder. It can also be used to stop cramps, like charley horses, by rubbing the oil directly onto the problem area. It can also be used to help relieve pain associated with menstrual cramps.
The oil can also be added to a carrier oil and applied to sore muscles and joints. It may also help to heal sprains by massaging a few drops of the oil directly onto the sprained area up to three times a day.
As A Natural Cosmetic
Lemongrass essential oil is considered to be one of the best oils for the skin. It can be added to store bought or homemade products used on the skin, including the face, and hair. It counters excess oil produced by the skin and hair follicles, leaving behind balanced and moisturized skin. It acts as a toner which can help to tighten hair follicles that will result in less hair loss. It also can minimize the size of pores and leave skin more smooth and with less fine lines.
Lemongrass oil can also be used to help with the appearance of varicose veins, which are veins that have been damaged by weight gain or medical conditions. Mix a few drops of lemongrass with a few drops of cypress oil and a large spoonful of a carrier oil. Apply to the veins in upward strokes towards the heart twice a day. Lemongrass can also help with the appearance of cellulite. Mix the oil with a carrier oil and apply to problem areas twice daily to see an improvement in the texture and appearance of the skin.
As A Cooking Agent
Lemongrass is one of the most well known culinary herbs around the world. It is very popular in South and Central America, Southeast Asia and the Caribbean. It is often referred to as fever grass in these areas. Most often the stalks of the plant are used to help flavor soups, curries and marinades. It is also a common ingredient used in teas. More often than not, the essential oil can be substituted if fresh stalks are not available. Try using lemongrass oil in your next chicken or fish dish for a great boost of flavor.
As An Aromatherapy Staple
Lemongrass oil is a common oil in aromatherapy, which is the use of essential oils in a therapeutic manner. Inhaling the oil can help ease the pain caused from headaches and lessen irritability. It is also known to prevent drowsiness. A few sniffs of the oil can instantly rejuvenate a tired mind and body. The oil is often used as a natural treatment to help curb depression symptoms and treat insomnia.
Try lemongrass oil to boost awareness by placing a drop in your palms, rubbing your hands together and inhaling for about thirty seconds. This should increase your focus and lessen mental fatigue as well, especially during difficult tasks at work or while studying.
Always use essential oils, including lemongrass, with caution. While rare, allergic reactions are possible. If any part of the skin becomes red, itchy or irritated stop use of the oil immediately. Before using the oil as a treatment for serious medical conditions, speak with your doctor.
Lemongrass should especially be avoiding by pregnant and nursing women and should not be used in children unless otherwise instructed to do so.
